Gestational diabetes is a type of diabetes that develops during pregnancy, most often in the second or third trimester. It usually disappears after the baby is born but these women have increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes later on.

According to a recent study conducted by lead author of the study Gema Sanabria-Martinez from Virgen de la Luz Hospital in has revealed that little exercise during pregnancy can reduce the risk of gestational diabetes and also helps to reduce maternal weight gain.

The study included 13 trials on 2, 800 women and found that exercising while pregnant reduced the risk of gestational diabetes by more than 30 percent. This effect was strongest for women who combined toning, strength, flexibility and aerobic exercise.

Gestational diabetes not only effects the mother, it also shows negative impact on child. The children of mothers with gestational diabetes ate more likely to become obese and have higher risk of developing diabetes themselves. So, experts suggest moderate exercise for women throughout their pregnancy.

The findings were published in British Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology - An International Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology.

By Lizitha